Tod-

I asked a very similar question about Palms chips on this very board just 6 months ago -- as a newbie. i'm still a newbie, but I've learned one basic lesson -- chip collecting is like any other activity: if you do what you love, the money will probably follow, but there's no "easy money".

In their first year, the supply of Palms chips has been enough to meet demand. Financially, that weighs against the chips in the short run, but works in their favor in the long run. Gene is building a fan base used to getting one of everything they want. On the other hand, they've produced great chips, and their market hasn't reached its full potential. In 5 years they may be the new Hard Rock (a sort of gold standard for collectors of recent LEs). The hotel is devloping quite a reputation on a national scale. if that happens, and the hobby continues to grow as it is growing, current Palsm chips may be rarities. But even if that doesn't happen, you aren't risking much. You can always cash them in. That's what separates chips from Beenie Babies -- intrinsic value.

From an investment standpoint, I'd buy the entire Palms KISS set. The cross-collectibilty will rival any Hard Rock chip if you ask me. Gene has struck gold there.